The flavor of Mexico

September 15, 2006|By Terri Mooney, metromix special contributor

If last Sunday's rain made you hit the snooze button instead of the Little Village Mexican Independence Day parade, don't worry. You get another chance to fiesta for freedom at noon Saturday in Pilsen. Afterward, move the party to Mundial Cocina Mestiza (1640 W. 18th St. 312-491-9908). They're serving traditional treats such as chiles en nogada ($12), stuffed green poblano peppers with white walnut sauce and red pomegranate seeds--the ingredients match the colors of the Mexican flag. Or, go for mole con tamales nejos, Southern Mexico-style tamales made with wood ash-prepped masa steamed in banana leaves. Sugar junkies should head to BomBon Bakery (1508 W. 18th St. 312-733-7788) for tres leches cakes in multiple flavors (such as Kahlua and caramel) decorated in the colors of the Mexican flag ($3.85-$45). See metromix.com for parade details.